Flunarizine: What It Is, How It Works, and What Alternatives Exist

When you're dealing with frequent migraines or constant dizziness, Flunarizine, a calcium channel blocker used to prevent migraines and treat vertigo. Also known as Sibelium, it doesn't just mask symptoms—it helps calm overactive nerve signals in the brain that trigger these episodes. Unlike painkillers that kick in after the headache hits, Flunarizine works quietly in the background to stop attacks before they start. It’s not a cure, but for many people, it’s the difference between living normally and being stuck in the dark, waiting for the next wave of pain or spinning room.

Flunarizine is often prescribed for migraine prevention, a long-term strategy to reduce frequency and severity of headaches, especially when other options like beta-blockers or topiramate haven’t worked or caused too many side effects. It’s also used for vestibular disorders, conditions that affect balance and cause dizziness, like Ménière’s disease or benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. The drug helps stabilize blood flow in the inner ear and brain, which is why it’s so effective for vertigo. But it’s not for everyone—side effects like drowsiness, weight gain, or depression can be serious, and it’s banned in some countries because of long-term risks.

People who use Flunarizine often compare it to other options like propranolol, topiramate, or even verapamil. Some find it works better than others. Others switch because the drowsiness is too much. What’s clear is that this isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. If you’re considering it, you’re probably looking for something that works without wrecking your daily life. The posts below give you real comparisons—how Flunarizine stacks up against other migraine and vertigo drugs, what patients actually experience, and when it’s worth trying versus when you should look elsewhere. You’ll find no fluff, just straight talk on what helps, what doesn’t, and what to ask your doctor before starting.